“I would’ve loved to stand up and jump with the fans throughout the game,” he said in a Press conference.

“I loved being there, as I knew of the bond I have with these people, but I must confess I never expected such a wonderful show of love.

“Fiorentina have been important and unique, more in my life than in my career. As a professional, I always tried to give my best in every club I played at: Roma, Inter and in Qatar. I always tried to win, as is only natural.

“However, the years I spent in Florence cannot be compared to any other football experience.”

Batigol scored 157 goals in 254 games for Fiorentina in all competition, wearing the purple jersey from 1991 to July 2000.